My Prayer
“After this manner therefore pray ye.” – Matthew 6:9
“After this manner therefore pray ye.” – Matthew 6:9
There are times in life when it is more difficult to pray than others. We may be going through a trying period and are struggling to see, or even seek, God’s purpose in it. Perhaps we have let the cares of life distract us from the spiritual needs around us, and we feel at a loss for where to begin. Or maybe we are feeling physically exhausted and prayer seems a monumental task. Whatever the reason may be, at times when my prayer life is strained I find it easier to begin with the Lord’s Prayer. I also like to break it down and consider the definition of some of the words, to help me better understand what they mean. My prayer goes something like this:
Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed [anointed, blessed] be thy name. Thy kingdom [the area where You dominate] come. Thy will [Thy desire, Thy purpose] be done in earth [the realm of mortal existence], as it is in heaven [the abode of God and His angels]. Give us [Your people] this day our daily bread [food regarded as necessary to sustain life]. And forgive us our debts [sins, trespasses, obligations], as we forgive our debtors [those guilty of neglect or violation of duty]. And lead us not into temptation [enticement], but deliver us from evil [something that brings sorrow, distress, or calamity]: For thine is the kingdom [in our hearts and lives], and the power [authority], and the glory [great honor and distinction], for ever [for all time, without end, on and on] and ever. Amen” (Matthew 6:9-13).
Sometimes I also personalize the prayer a bit: “My Father, which art in Heaven, Hallowed be Thy name. Thy Kingdom come, Thy will be done in earth, and in my life, as it is in Heaven.” As I continue on, I insert myself for every “us,” “our,” and “we.” Thinking about how these words apply to me specifically helps the meaning apply even more deeply.
Before I have finished this prayer, my mind and my heart are open to the things that I need to talk to the Lord about, because my mind has been refreshed on Who God truly is in Heaven and in earth.
If you have found prayer difficult lately, try following Jesus’ example. It is a wonderful way to begin a conversation with the Lord.